The position assigned to Caleb Downs heading into the NFL was safety. The new Dallas Cowboys quarterback is much more than that.
Downs joined The GBAG Nation on 105.3 The Fan on Monday and was asked if he considers himself a safety or a weapon to deploy anywhere on the field.
“I would say I’m a defensive player,” he replied. “Being able to play close to the line, being able to play second level, third level, being able to do a lot of different things. You say weapon, I’d just say complete player. If you’re a player who can play on all sides of your defense and make your defense better, that’s who you want on your team. That’s great, but if he doesn’t necessarily make the game, it doesn’t matter.
Ohio State used Downs primarily as a nickel, safety, and sometimes as an extra linebacker. His nose for the ball and ability to fit the run or cover any spot make him an exceptional piece that can go wherever Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker needs. We’ve seen the difference weapons like Kyle Hamilton and Nick Emmanwori can make by moving. Downs isn’t as big as those two, but he gives the Cowboys a mobile playmaker. The intelligence and leadership that Downs brings to the table can help transform Dallas’ defense.
To their credit, most opponents didn’t test Downs during his college run, which resulted in just two interceptions each of the last three seasons. His ball skills suggest more if put to the test.
Downs was asked if he ever got bored in college, given how few teams targeted him. To his credit, the rookie gave an honest answer.
“Yes, I honestly do,” he said. “The ball isn’t coming to you. Maybe the talent isn’t as good that week. You don’t always play high-level talent every week in college, so it’s something you have to get used to. Sometimes those games can get boring just because of the fact that you’re playing a team that doesn’t have as good an offensive line, your D-line will actually make all those tackles, you just couldn’t do it for real. The action.”
There is no Grambling or Little Sisters of the Poor on the cowboy program. NFL teams won’t be afraid to target Downs, especially early in his career. In a rebuilt defense, the rookie will be the glue that can help turn the worst unit in the league into a potential difference maker in the NFC East.